Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap – Dentist | Port Alberni, BC

Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Port Alberni, BC, Dr. Yap is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Yap is licensed by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in BC. Dr. Yap provides a wide range of dental services for patients of all ages, including preventative care, routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canal treatments (non-specialist), and basic extractions, focused on maintaining overall oral health. Dr. Yap serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap earned a Dental Degree. With over 16 years of practice since 2009, Dr. Yap has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Yap is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. This commitment to professional development reflects Dr. Yap's unwavering dedication to excellence in patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Yap's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Yap provides consultations in English.

Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Yap. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Yap. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific dental needs, please schedule a consultation.

All dental services by Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to achieve significant improvements in your oral health, address your specific dental concerns, and help you attain your desired smile. Dr. Yap frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Yap understands that dealing with a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance, helping patients comfortably get back to enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity and feeling their best.
• For individuals troubled by wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances, Dr. Yap's approach is focused on delivering their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding with a healthier smile.
• If one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Yap develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals, Dr. Yap offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children.

Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Yap, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Yap is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.

Dr. Yap's practice, a dental office in Port Alberni, is situated in a central location within Port Alberni's Port Alberni neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often employer-sponsored), or government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income children, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to check your eligibility for public coverage and review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Yap for a check-up and cleaning?

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Yap will personalize your schedule based on individual needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and existing conditions. Some patients may require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for gum disease), while others may have longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Yap's specific recommendations.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Yap typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Yap provides primary dental care for all ages. Services typically include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and potentially cosmetic procedures (whitening, bonding). They also provide oral hygiene education and refer to specialists for complex cases.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Gums that bleed easily, appear red or puffy, or feel sore are common signs of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or breath can also indicate gum disease. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) might involve gums pulling away from teeth, loose teeth, or discomfort when chewing. Regular check-ups with Dr. Yap are essential for early detection and treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Yap at the clinic?

Your first visit will involve a medical history review, discussion of dental concerns/goals, and a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Yap will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatment. It's an ideal time to ask questions.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Yap?

No referral is typically needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Yap.

Does our clinic offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

Yes, for your convenience, our clinic offers direct billing (also known as assignment of benefits) to most major dental insurance companies. This means we can submit your claim electronically directly to your insurer at the time of your appointment. You would then typically be responsible for paying any co-payment, deductible, or the portion of the fee not covered by your specific plan at the time of service. Please bring all your current insurance information (policy number, group number, ID number) to your appointment so we can assist you.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Yap will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

102 - 4115 Sixth Avenue
Port Alberni, BC, V9Y 4N1

Phone: (250) 724-3211

Dr. Roland Louis Siapco Yap is a licensed Dentist in BC, regulated by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Yap and the team are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental care. If you have a dental emergency, please contact the clinic promptly. For after-hours emergencies that are life-threatening, proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department.